Solution: Carpet rental and flooring are usually options rather than requirements. However, some shows to require exhibitors to use flooring to create a consistent look for the entire show, so contact show management before you nix flooring completely.

To cut costs, you can also bring your own carpet to most shows. Shop around for carpet remnants that fit your exhibit space, or have a carpet custom cut at an exhibit house or carpet store. Remember, however, that you'll incur shipping, drayage, and possibly labor costs, so do the math to make sure owning your own carpet will save you money in the long run.